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Statement on Jacquie Petrusma and Tasmania’s Child Protection system

Serious revelations aired this afternoon on the ABC about Tasmania’s Child Protection system and Minister Jacquie Petrusma leave no doubt that her position is now completely untenable.

Mrs Petrusma has no option but to resign as the guardian of the state’s most vulnerable and at-risk children following the ABC’s interviews with frontline workers who have clearly stated that guarding the Minister has become more important than protecting children.

The Premier has no option but to step in and demand that she leave one of the most important portfolios in government.

This is a test of Will Hodgman’s priorities and leadership – he must stop protecting this Minister and show Tasmanians who he cares about most.

Does Mr Hodgman place protecting his Minister above protecting our most vulnerable and at-risk children who have been so utterly and comprehensively failed?